Go Ahead For Hemisphere Challenge Match

19 April 2002 13:31pm

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The match, which will be played biennially, and from which the proceeds will be used to assist a selected number of financially disadvantaged countries, will follow the Autumn Internationals. It is anticipated that all the world's leading players will take part.
John O'Neill, Managing Director/CEO of the Australian Rugby Union said, "This initiative will help to re-establish and rejuvenate the game amongst proud rugby communities like Fiji, Samoa, Tonga and Romania, and help to create a much more competitive structure at the elite level".
Rian Oberholzer, Managing Director of South African Rugby added, "This represents a unique opportunity for the rugby community to unite and assist those countries experiencing financial difficulty."
Dr Syd Millar, former Irish and British Lions prop forward, and Chairman of the IRB Technical Committee will be responsible for appointing the coaches of the two teams and Michael Lynagh, newly appointed to the IRB in a development role, will act as Match Manager.
Following the match in Cardiff, the IRB will hold the Annual International Awards Ceremony at which the outstanding achievements of the rugby year, both on and off the field, will be recognised.

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